I know he muttered something about its being a sore pity it was not Jemima or Kezzie that had been chosen.

And then he bethought him that it was not right to let a daughter see too much of his mind, or speak too much of her own; and he bid me begone something sternly, declaring he would think the matter over, but that he looked for dutiful obedience from any child of his, and that I was not to think I might set up mine own will against his whatever his decision might be in the end." Cherry's tempest of tears was by this time ended, and she spoke collectedly enough, raising her eyes now and then to the grave face of her lover to mark the effect of her words upon him.

Cuthbert's face was grave but not unhopeful, and taking Cherry's hand firmly in his as she ended her tale, he said: "If he will but put the matter off for a year, all will be well.

If the treasure is to be found at all, I shall have found it by then.
Let these dark winter days but change to the long soft ones of spring, and I go forth into the forest upon my quest.

When I return laden with my share of the spoil, I trow I shall be able to win and wed my Cherry, be there never so many Jacobs in the field before me!" Cherry laughed a soft little laugh, and her fears and tremblings ceased for the time being.